Birmingham's Best Bar None awards 2012

Winners and photos from the annual gala event celebrating Birmingham's top venues

Pubs, clubs and bars are celebrating after being crowned Birmingham’s top venues.

Sixty watering holes were shortlisted in Birmingham City Council’s Best Bar None Awards and the winners were revealed at a ceremony at the International Convention Centre.

The Square Peg, in Corporation Street, scooped the top honour – the council’s overall Best Bar None gong, which is aimed at recognising venues that work hard to provide a safe haven for drinkers wanting a trouble-free night out.

It also won the Best City Centre Pub crown.

Jacqui Kennedy, from the council, said the pub had worked hard to improve over the past year.

“It is a busy and bustling pub and since its refurbishment recently it has enjoyed an improvement, not only in clientele, but in the overall experience for the customer,” she said.

“It also offers a wide range of ales and beer festivals every six weeks using local breweries.”

The Jam House, in St Paul’s Square, also had a successful night, winning both the Best Independent Venue and the Birmingham Community Safety Partnership Award titles.

All short-listed premises were given Best Bar None plaques to display, including Euphrates Packet, in Sherborne Wharf – the first bar on a narrow boat to win accreditation.

Mrs Kennedy said: “Birmingham is a great city and one that thrives on an excellent nightlife and leisure trade.

“Well-run pubs play a vital role in people’s perceptions of safety and also benefit the economy by attracting more visitors, businesses and students.

“These awards, which have gone from strength to strength since they were launched, are about celebrating those establishments that are working hard to ensure a safe night out for all.”